Chapter 341 - The situation
Scarlett observed The Gentleman closely for several moments. His polite, enigmatic smile didn’t waver.
“…Since you are already here, I suspect my preferences hold little importance,” she finally said, gesturing to the empty space on the couch beside Rosa.
“On the contrary, Baroness, the decision remains entirely yours,” The Gentleman replied—just a touch too smoothly—as he began to cross the parlour, his cane clicking against the polished marble floors. “I am hardly so ill-mannered as to impose upon the sanctity of another’s home when unwelcome.”
Empress gave a soft, dignified meow from her perch atop the table.
“Might I remind you, my dear, that you were the one who insisted on intruding today?” he said, casting a gentle yet reproving glance towards the cat. “Even after I advised patience.”
Empress simply tilted her head away, clearly choosing to ignore him.
The Gentleman shook his head lightly in resignation, placing his top hat neatly on the table and settling next to Rosa, his cane resting against the sofa’s side. His dull brown eyes swept across the assembled group, acknowledging each person with a courteous nod. “Warmest salutations to you all. For those unfamiliar with me, I am known as ‘The Gentleman’. I suspect most of you are more acquainted with my esteemed feline companion.”
Empress meowed again.
The Gentleman cleared his throat. “Ah, how remiss of me. It appears she demands a formal introduction, despite your prior acquaintance.” He gestured to the cat. “Allow me to present Her Royal Highness Tazu’Ivhra D’lhemra Azidazcha Ma’hri Khinzanda, Sovereign over the Endless Jungles of Najjera, the Realm of Ji’Var, the Eternal Dominion of Za’gh, the Sands of Baajirr, and all of the sunbathed lands between.”
The cat gave another emphatic meow.
“And, naturally,” he added, “the undisputed ruler of one particularly choice windowsill overlooking the courtyard from the second floor of this manor’s east wing.”
Scarlett didn’t miss the delighted, half-gushing look on Allyssa’s face at the grand introduction. Nor did she overlook Evelyne’s amused gaze lingering on Empress’ ‘dignified’ pose, her lips twitching as if to suppress a smile.